New York Knicks: Rookie Report On Ron Baker

Ron Baker has become a fan favorite since joining the New York Knicks. How has he performed during his rookie season with the Knicks?

Ron Baker, fresh out of Wichita State, came into the league with something to prove—just as any rookie does making the transition from college to the NBA. In his case, he was hailing from small town Scott City, Kansas. Baker helped carry his school to their first Class 3A Championship, and was rewarded with an offer of walking on to Wichita State.

Although he declined the offer and requested to be redshirted his first year, he was granted his wishes and would prove to be an effective choice.

College Phenom, Under The Radar

An incomplete and average first season on the court—due in large part to a stress fracture in his left foot—would prove to be the only downside for the remainder of his tenure. As for his first complete season with the Shockers, waves were certainly made.

He posted solid numbers with 14.1 points per game at a impressively high 45.6 percent shooting from the field. He displayed the ability to have the 3-ball splashing, leading Wichita State with 3-point field goals made at 68 with a highly acceptable percentage of .380.

This momentum carried through the rest of his time with the Wichita State Shockers, and upon the end of his senior year, his stats simply jump off the page. Leading the team in minutes per game, points per game, field goals made, and shots beyond the arc.

Despite his excellent performance and consistent play, he still somehow managed to fly under the radar from NBA scouts.

Welcome To The Pros

Ron Baker would go on to be undrafted, but he was picked up by the New York Knicks this past August. At Summer League, he put up similar numbers to those of his time spent at Wichita State.

His time so far with the Knicks surely could be considered a learning experience, especially coming from a town with a population of roughly 4,000 people. He was moving to the city that never sleeps.

During his rookie season, Baker has shown signs that he’s indeed capable of competing against the vast amount of talented guards in the NBA. He’s trying to secure his future while flying under the radar.

Rookie Season And Beyond

In 39 games, Baker’s minutes have been extremely limited. It’s understood that there’s plenty of talent on the Knicks’ score-heavy roster. 12.6 minutes per game is all Hornaceck can fit into his rotation.

Considering he’s only seeing an average of 3.3 shots per game, nobody should be expecting a player to heat up with the type of role he’s been assigned. Yet, Baker puts up consistent numbers as a rookie.

So far, he’s averaging 9.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.1 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.2 3-point field goals made per 36 minutes.

Despite the New York Knicks currently sitting at 12th in the Eastern Conference at 27-42, it’s as important as ever for Baker to prove his worth.

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If he’s given the chance to do so.